Apple envisions iPad cases with flexible displays that expand functionality into the tablet's protective sleeve, recently publicised patent applications reveal.
Apple patent application for Smart Covers
The suggested Smart Cover, which draws power and data from a connector on one side of the slate, could be used to display a …

Re: Just imagine the accessory potential

There is NOTHING new or innovative about what has been described - everything here is already possible, and it is simply applying existing designs and technologies to an Apple platform. There are devices with opening covers that show different screens (Didn't the RAZR have that, what about Nintento consoles with two screens), there are touch screens (I've got a Leather A4 folio that captures writing on one side to display on the screen on another).

So I haven't bothered my arse to go and read the full application, and there may be something "new and unique", however all this is likely to generate is lawyer revenue.

@dx

There is a difference between holding a patent on whatever trickery that allows one to manufacture a flexible display (and there may be multiple solutions, so multiple patents with competing holders), and quite another on holding a patent on simply using a flexible display.

Sony's smart watch acts as a remote control to an Android phone via bluetooth. This is one example of prior art of a separate device which augments the main display. It's not the only one of course by a long stretch.

I don't see anything novel about putting the display into a cover. More importantly I don't see much point either.

Re: That's a Nintendo DS!

Re: That's a Nintendo DS!

Absolutely, apart from the fact The Transformer is a screen with a detachable keyboard and the diagram is a screen with another detachable screen. Maybe you should read the words and not just look at the pictures?

Re: Microsoft

I agree, I was really hoping at the time that the Courier would be launched and unfortunately it didn't. This would be a fantastic add on to an iPad....

Loving all the armchair patent experts on here thinking they can determine the outcome. Perhaps if they know it so well, they should apply to get a job at the patent office. No? Indeed, didn't think so either...